The Seekers era is mostly about "Item Level" with regards to equipment and pets. After meeting some requirements you can
upgrade your Guttler to iLvl 119 with 300
Plutons. Place your highest item level axe in your main hand because that slot determines the maximum level your pets can be.
You probably noticed we have
Bestial Loyalty as a JA now so you can use Jug Pets for free. If you can buy or cook up some
Salubrious Broth and its HQ version, Windy Greens, the
Tulfaire birds are amazing pets that take -50% slashing damage (a highly prevalent damage type that most monsters use). Most other pets can be cheaply purchased from Theraisie (Upper Jeuno, G-6, inside M&P's Market). We've received upgraded versions of
Sheep,
Ladybug, etc etc, with higher level caps.
Edit: There's a great
food guide by Garota that lists the new food types that give bonuses to both the master and the pet.
Welcome back. :)